Toxin-producing blue-green algae closes Hamilton beach

The Binbrook Conservation Area beach will be closed because of the confirmed presence of toxin-producing blue-green algae, which can make people sick and even kill pets if ingested.

Residents are advised to avoid contact with blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, because of “potential health risks.”

The City of Hamilton Health Services made the announcement Monday (Aug. 14), saying Niagara Conservation Authority will be posting the beach as “closed,” including all water recreational activities.

“The closure will be in effect until the blue-green algae subsides,” the City wrote in a press release. 

Updates will be provided at hamilton.ca/beaches as Hamilton Public Health Services continues to monitor and gather water samples, the City added.

People are asked to avoid “all contact with the water along the shoreline of Binbrook Conservation Area beach,” including while launching or pulling watercraft.

If you touch the water, the City advises washing yourself off as soon as possible with clean water.

People who come into contact with visible blue-green algae or ingest water containing it may experience skin irritation, rash, sore throat, sore red eyes, swollen lips, fever, nausea and vomiting and/or diarrhea.

If you are experiencing headaches, fever, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting and have been to the area recently, visit a family physician, nurse practitioner or walk-in clinic.